The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center

The last time I had been to the Berkshires, in Lenox at Tanglewood to be specific, was to see the Moody Blues on 26th June 1994. Theirs was a 20-tune setlist with a short intermission between the two sets. As lovely as that Sunday evening was, have no hesitation in confessing the Friday evening performance at the intimate Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center topped it. The theatre is an oldie dating back to 1905, has a few limitations when it comes to conveniences or accoutrements, but Justin Hayward and his small but talented troupe gave us a sparkling night to remember. The fulsome 15-tune setlist, including the 6-song medley that’s been a winning addition and slotted appropriately after the 5th tune, was ideally sequenced: Tuesday Afternoon; Driftwood; Blue World; Living for Love; Hope and Pray; The Day We Meet Again/One Lonely Room/Out and In/In My World/Meanwhile/Voices in the Sky; The Voice; Forever Autumn; Never Comes the Day; Your Wildest Dreams; Question; Nights in White Satin; Blue Guitar; The Story in Your Eyes; and, I Know You’re Out There Somewhere… an inspired mix that flirted with genres, changed up tempos. Justin’s solo shows have been labors of love. He’s obviously taken pains to hone, introduce a few surprises with each tour, to keep his performances fresh and appealing. His fellow musicians accommodate, lend their significant contributions, to prove less is more. Hearing his compositions, together with a cover or two, as they sounded when he first sat down to create, pull them together, is a genuine joy and privilege. There’s the difference that sets them apart, makes for a most memorable night.

Had a great time. Never realized Great Barrington, Massachusetts, was such an arts mecca/tourist destination, located in one of the more remote areas of the state. Well, as remote as can be in a state that small. Have flown into the local airport several times but had never been down town. Street musicians, artists, and other performers all over the place. Located a parking spot about a quarter mile from the venue. Sidewalks totally crammed with humanity. Wonderful show with three song encore. A quick survey showed few, if any, empty seats. Justin had a person I assume was his guitar tech on stage for two songs, one on acoustic bass and the other on twelve string. Missing from the set was my favorite of his solo songs "The Western Sky" but he did start a medley of about six songs with the first verse of "The Day We Meet Again" which is my all time Moodys' favorite. Justin flubbed the lyrics in the last verse of "Forever Autumn". What should have been "... as if to hide a lonely tear" started to come out as a repeat of the previous verse "...you always loved that time of year". He caught himself midway through and grimaced a bit before carrying on to the finish. The song is always a crowd favorite and I doubt anyone really cared.

Amazing show...I wish he was still performing!

We drove to Massachusetts to see Joanne Shaw Taylor and the show was Great!! She played a few songs off her new album and a good mix of older tunes.I think she’s a great guitar player and love to watch her play.I saw her back in November when she came to NY and that show was Fabulous!!We got to support our blues musicians and keep it alive.

Amazing artist on top of her game at a beautiful venue

Che ti devo dire una cosa che non ho mai fatto in

Great venue and amazing show Can't wait to see Mat again soon

Chad LB. The best saxophonist in the world!!

Pat is always an overwhelming experience to see perform. His young band mates were fantastic as well. Looking forward to seeing him again in 2 days @ Bearsvillle Theater in Woodstock, NY

Wonderful, intimate moment where she finally played "Tell Yourself"! (this only photo taken was after the concert finished after the encore)